The U visa classification provides a path to legal status for certain foreign-national crime victims. The U visa is available to individuals who have
suffered substantial physical or mental abuse as a result of having been the victim of qualifying criminal activity*, who possess information concerning the criminal activity, and who have been
helpful, are being helpful, or are likely to be helpful to the authorities investigating or prosecuting the criminal activity.

The U visa classification is sought through a Form I-918 petition, filed with USCIS. Prior to submitting the I-918 petition and supporting documents, the
applicant must obtain a U nonimmigrant status certification, signed by a designated law enforcement official.

The U classification allows an individual to live and work temporarily in the U.S., and eventually apply for permanent residence. Successful U visa
applicants may also obtain protection for their minor children, and in certain instances, for their spouses, siblings, and parents.

VAWA, or the Violence Against Women Act, provides a route to permanent resident status for certain battered and abused foreign nationals. Individuals who have been the victims of violence or extreme cruelty at the hands of a U.S. citizen or resident spouse or parent may be eligible to obtain permanent
residence through a VAWA self-petition. A battered spouse may also include his or her children in the petition. A VAWA self-petition may still be filed following divorce from the abusive spouse, if submitted within two years of the legal termination of the
marriage.

This summary of U Visas and VAWA Self-Petitions does not represent legal advice to any specific case.
Interested applicants are advised to consult with an immigration attorney prior to initiating the process.